Reggae Icon Jah Faith Stands Proud Beside Venice’s 'Trolley to Zion' Tribute Mural

Venice, CA – Monday, October 28, 2024 – Musician Jah Faith, 71, was seen today on Rose Avenue in Venice, standing next to a mural that features him prominently. The mural, entitled "Trolley to Zion," was painted by artist Marlee Westmoreland and depicts a trolley with Jah Faith as the driver. The artwork, completed in 2022, is a vibrant homage to Jah Faith's roots in reggae music and his long-standing presence in the Venice community. Jah Faith, originally from Trinidad, has lived in Venice for 23 years. Known for his work as a reggae singer and as the MC at LA's renowned Dub Club, his career has spanned decades. His journey began in Trinidad, where his love for music took shape in the village of Boissiere. Over the years, Jah Faith has opened for reggae legends like ASWAD, performed at major venues like the Hollywood Bowl, and shared the stage with artists such as John Holt and Brigadier Jerry. His contributions to reggae have left an indelible mark on the West Coast music scene. The mural serves as a fitting tribute to Jah Faith’s influence in Venice and the broader reggae community. As he continues to perform and record, this artwork is a reminder of his journey from Trinidad to California and his enduring impact on reggae music.

Ghostly Riders: Venice's Electric Bike Parade Spooks and Sparkles Under a Haunted Moon

Santa Monica, CA – Under the night sky of Santa Monica and Venice, the Venice Electric Bike Parade took center stage on the Ocean Front Walk, on Sunday, October 27, 2024. This vibrant event saw participants on electric bikes, trikes, and various human-powered vehicles, each adorned with bright, twinkling lights and dressed in festive Halloween costumes. Starting at the Venice Beach Recreation Center, the parade made its way along the scenic bike path, showcasing a spectacle of lights and creativity as it passed by notable landmarks like the Venice Skate Park and Muscle Beach in Santa Monica. The parade not only captivated onlookers with its dazzling array of illuminated bikes but also promoted sustainability and eco-friendly transportation. Spectators from all over the region gathered to witness this enchanting display, which has become a cherished tradition in the community. The parade stands as a testament to the area's commitment to innovation in sustainable transport and the enduring spirit of community and celebration. As the evening unfolded, the atmosphere buzzed with excitement and admiration from the crowd, solidifying the Venice Electric Bike Parade as a must-see event and a highlight of the local cultural calendar. This celebration of light, creativity, and community is set to continue inspiring and delighting residents and visitors for many years to come.

Joker's Wild: 'Diablo' Sparks Halloween Frolic at Venice Beach Drum Circle

Amid the vibrant hues of sunset at Venice Beach on October 27, 2024, Eder, an established artist and musician also known as "Diablo," fully embraced the Halloween spirit by attending the weekly Drum Circle dressed as the Joker. This cultural staple of the area pulsed with the rhythm of community and celebration, and Eder's thematic costume added a playful twist to the evening's festivities.

"Venice Beach has always been a cultural hub, something I've been a part of since my teenage years," Eder shared enthusiastically. "The Drum Circle isn't just about music; it's a sanctuary, a reliable gathering place that we know will always be here, no matter what."

Eder highlighted that the Drum Circle is more than a musical event; it's a cultural phenomenon that fosters a sense of community and belonging. "It's never been about escaping through substances; it's about having a place to go, knowing it will be there," he explained. "This circle is a crown, a gathering that welcomes everyone."

The artist also expressed concerns about the local government's understanding of the community. "You've got to see the real Venice Beach, beyond the computer screens. There's a bike run organized by someone known as 'The Captain,' and many other activities that create a sense of community here," Eder said, pointing out the disconnect between the local authorities and the beach community's realities.

As the drums continued to echo into the evening, Eder stood barefoot in the sand, his Joker costume a nod to the Halloween season, embodying both the joy and the depth of Venice Beach's unique culture. "This place is sacred to me. It's about breaking through to the other side of yourself, finding peace and connection in a community that accepts and celebrates every individual," he reflected.

With every beat of the drum, Eder and the Venice Beach community continue to champion a vibrant culture that resonates deeply with both locals and visitors, making the Drum Circle a must-experience event that embodies the spirit of unity and artistic expression.

Safety Slate Marches for Change: Candidates Rally for Safer Streets and Parks in Santa Monica

On Sunday, October 27, 2024, the "Women For A Safer Santa Monica" and the Safety Slate candidates marched down Main Street, advocating for public safety reforms and a stronger community focus. The group carried signs and chanted slogans calling for leadership that puts the residents and businesses of Santa Monica first. The march featured speeches from the slate’s candidates, including Mayor Phil Brock, councilmember Oscar de la Torre, business owner John Putnam, and dental implant surgeon Dr. Vivian Roknian. Each candidate voiced their concerns about the current state of public safety and their commitment to addressing these issues. John Putnam, a long-time business owner and candidate for City Council, stressed the need to protect the city’s women. "Thirty-eight percent of our population are single women in Santa Monica," he said. "We need to protect them. They deserve our leadership to help them." Putnam emphasized that the entire community should benefit from leadership that listens to and acts in the interest of all residents. Dr. Vivian Roknian echoed these sentiments, particularly addressing the need for safer public spaces. "We need to take our parks back for our kids, our seniors, our families," Roknian said. "Let’s make our parks and green spaces safer for everyone." She also highlighted the struggles many residents face in accessing public spaces, adding, "Many apartment owners and renters don’t feel safe going to our parks, or even getting into our libraries. We need to clean and open these spaces for everyone." Roknian also pinpointed the growing issues of drugs and homelessness in the city. "The biggest problem we have right now is the drugs coming into our city and the homeless crisis," she stated. "We need to give our police, fire department, and support services what they need to take care of all of us residents. We all deserve to smile again in our city." Oscar de la Torre, councilmember and Safety Slate candidate, highlighted the platform’s focus on public safety and community. "We’ve worked hard to address public safety by hiring more police officers and adding private security for areas like the 3rd Street Promenade," he said. "We’re committed to bringing back safety and community effort in a positive way." The event concluded with the slate’s call to action, rallying supporters with a clear message: a safer and cleaner Santa Monica is within reach, but it requires decisive leadership. As the marchers chanted, “What do we want? Safety! When do we want it? Now!”, the candidates reiterated their pledge to continue advocating for the well-being of all Santa Monica residents. The Safety Slate’s platform includes addressing homelessness, supporting law enforcement, revitalizing commercial districts, protecting rent control, and ensuring clean and safe public spaces. The slate, endorsed by local unions like Teamsters Local 42, aims to foster a stronger, safer Santa Monica for all.

A Sea of Pink Takes Over Palisades Park: Santa Monica Walks to End Breast Cancer

On Sunday, October 27, 2024, thousands of participants gathered along Palisades Park in Santa Monica for the American Cancer Society’s annual Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk. Santa Monica Vice Mayor Lana Negrete participated in the event, leading a group of 60 walkers. Negrete, who also spoke, delivered an inspiring message of hope and solidarity before cutting the ceremonial ribbon to officially start the walk.

Adding to the festive atmosphere, the USC Marching Band performed as participants began their 3- to 5-mile walk, energizing the crowd with lively tunes. Clad in pink, participants carried signs with messages like "Simply the Breast" and "Team Ally," walking in support of those affected by breast cancer.

The event, a celebration of courage and determination, united survivors, caregivers, and advocates, raising crucial funds and awareness. With approximately 313,000 individuals expected to be diagnosed with breast cancer in the U.S. this year, events like these play a pivotal role in funding research and patient care through the American Cancer Society’s ongoing efforts.

Santa Methica? Coalition’s Bold Banner Targets Santa Monica City Manager on Third Street Promenade

A controversial banner has appeared on the Third Street Promenade, targeting Santa Monica's City Manager, David White. The banner, displayed on a storefront, depicts White with a red clown nose, alongside the slogan “Santa Methica is Not Safe.” Organized by the Santa Monica Coalition, the sign encourages victims of crime in the area to join a collective lawsuit, as frustrations mount over public safety concerns.

The coalition's campaign draws attention to what they claim is the city's failure to adequately address the rise in crime, calling on residents to share their experiences. The prominent location of the banner on one of Santa Monica’s busiest pedestrian streets highlights the growing public discourse around safety in the city. The coalition has also provided further details through their website and social media platforms, inviting more voices to join their effort for change and accountability.

Fog Engulfs Venice Fishing Pier: A Morning Cloaked in Mystery

On a foggy Friday morning, October 25, 2024, at 7:33 AM, Santa Monica Closeup takes viewers on a tour of the Venice Fishing Pier. Shrouded in a thick marine layer, visibility along the iconic pier was limited, creating a mysterious yet serene atmosphere. The Venice Fishing Pier, a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike, stretches 1,310 feet into the Pacific, offering a panoramic view of the coastline—though on mornings like today, the view was nothing but a blanket of fog. Despite the limited visibility, the pier remains a popular destination for fishing and peaceful walks by the water.

 

Navigating the Streets: 14-Year-Old Runaway Billy Challenges Authority and Misrepresentation at Venice Beach

During a cleanup operation at the Venice Beach Skateboarding Park on Friday, October 25, 2024, Billy, the 14-year-old runaway, was found navigating his precarious situation. Billy shared his recent ordeal, detailing a hostile encounter and discussing his efforts to find stability while avoiding police custody. Billy recounted a recent threatening incident, explaining, "They tried to run me off a road a couple of nights ago... and I was talking to a police officer over here, he said no, they were just trying to take me into custody." His tone reflected a mix of resignation and frustration with how authorities handled his case. The young runaway also expressed dissatisfaction with Safe Place for Youth (SPY), a local service program that has repeatedly turned him away due to age restrictions. "It's kind of annoying when they keep on telling me I can come over, and when I show up, they're saying they can't help me," Billy commented, revealing the cyclic disappointments he faces. Billy's narrative took a personal turn as he spoke about Daisy, the Venice Healer, who he feels has misrepresented him to others. "She's starting to act a fool, bro... she's saying things about me that aren't really true," Billy stated, indicating a growing rift between him and Daisy over her public comments concerning his actions. Despite the challenges, Billy remains focused on his future, outlining his plans to gain independence and criticizing those who question his maturity due to his age. "I'm getting my stuff done, and I'm starting to get pissed off by the way people are telling me, 'Oh, you're a kid this and this and that.' It doesn't matter. I'm getting my reality check and my stuff straight," he declared firmly. Billy's day ended on a note of resilience as he prepared for the upcoming community Halloween event at the skate park. His story underscores the complex layers of youth homelessness, police interaction, and community support in Venice Beach.

Park Rangers Remove Homeless Woman Camping in Graffiti-Covered Clothing Donation Bin in Venice

Venice, Los Angeles – Friday, October 25, 2024 — During the ongoing weekly cleanup operation at Venice Beach, a homeless woman was found camping inside an abandoned clothing donation bin covered in graffiti near the Venice Art Walls. Los Angeles Park Rangers approached her and requested that she vacate the area so sanitation workers could clean. Although upset and yelling at the crew, she gathered her belongings and left. 

Sanitation workers then proceeded to clear the area, removing trash and discarded items left behind. This incident was part of a coordinated effort led by Los Angeles Park Rangers, LAPD officers, the City of Los Angeles Department of Public Works, LA County Beaches and Harbors, and Clean Harbors Environmental Inc. The operation, which focused on clearing homeless encampments, was aimed at maintaining public safety and cleanliness in the area.

The Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA) was also present to provide essential services such as food, water, and hygiene kits, reinforcing the city's commitment to supporting those experiencing homelessness through compassionate measures rather than punitive actions.

Although no citations were issued, the cleanup adhered to Los Angeles Municipal Code 63.44, which prohibits tents and unauthorized structures in public spaces like city parks. The multi-agency task force, which included representatives from LAHSA and Councilwoman Traci Park’s office, worked efficiently to remove hazardous and non-hazardous waste.

This initiative is part of a broader citywide effort to maintain public spaces while offering support to those in need. These regular cleanups, held every week, are a critical element of Los Angeles’s strategy to balance public health and safety with a compassionate approach to homelessness.

Police Officers and Park Rangers Oversee Homeless Encampment Cleanup Operation in Venice Beach

Venice, Los Angeles – Friday, October 25, 2024 — As part of the ongoing weekly cleanup initiatives in Venice, a coordinated operation was conducted at the Venice Beach restrooms and surrounding areas. The effort, led by Los Angeles Park Rangers, LAPD officers, the City of Los Angeles Department of Public Works, LA County Beaches and Harbors, and Clean Harbors Environmental Inc., focused on removing a homeless encampment to maintain public safety and cleanliness.

Police officers and Park Rangers were on-site to ensure the cleanup ran smoothly. Although no citations were issued to individuals camping on the beach, the operation adhered to Los Angeles Municipal Code 63.44, which prohibits tents in public spaces such as city parks.

The Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA) was also present, providing essential services such as food, water, and hygiene kits to individuals experiencing homelessness. This further emphasized the city's commitment to a supportive approach, prioritizing assistance over punitive measures.

After clearing the restrooms, the cleanup team moved on to other encampments along the beach. The multi-agency task force, which included representatives from LAHSA and Councilwoman Traci Park’s office, worked to address public health concerns by carefully sorting and removing both hazardous and non-hazardous waste.

This initiative is part of a broader city effort to balance public space maintenance with a compassionate response to homelessness. The absence of citations during the operation reflects the city's preference for supportive measures over punitive actions.

These weekly cleanups are a key component of Los Angeles’s strategy to address homelessness while ensuring safety and sanitation in public areas, with a focus on supportive solutions over enforcement.